SP-Star RedBlue vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The RedBlue switches are known for providing a medium-light typing experience, making them ideal for individuals who prefer a certain level of tactile feedback without being too heavy. These switches have a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, giving each keystroke a unique sound. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches stand out for their buttery smooth keystroke feel. With a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. They provide a crisp and responsive feel, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may suit different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ in terms of their bottom housings. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the WS Onion has a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material in the RedBlue contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Onion elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. So, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper sound, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing provides a fuller sound.
In terms of the top housings, both the RedBlue and the WS Onion utilize polycarbonate. This material choice creates a similar auditory experience in both switches. The use of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, the SP-Star RedBlue and the Wuque Studio WS Onion will produce a similar sound quality and aesthetic appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on key press and release, the qualities of each material are split between the bottom and top housings of the switch. The RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing down a key. Meanwhile, the top housing, made of polycarbonate for both switches, will impact the sound when releasing a key. This means that both the RedBlue and the WS Onion will provide distinct tactile experiences during key press and release, as influenced by their respective bottom and top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of both switches is unknown, but they both have different bottom out forces. The RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the WS Onion has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for extended periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for professional use or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel.
Although the actuation force of both switches is unknown, it is clear that the WS Onion offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the RedBlue. This means that individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience would be better suited to the WS Onion switch. However, for those who prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the RedBlue switch with its medium-light bottom out force would be a suitable choice.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star RedBlue and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches have unknown actuation forces, they differ in their bottom out forces. The WS Onion is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the RedBlue is lighter, allowing for comfortable extended periods of typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches will provide a consistent and familiar tactile experience. Whether you opt for the RedBlue or the WS Onion, you can expect to have a similar travel distance that allows for comfortable typing or gaming sessions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the RedBlue linear switch offers a relatively higher-pitched tone. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a sound that is more on the higher end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it doesn't have any particularly distinct pitch and instead offers a more balanced sound. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound, the RedBlue switch would be the better choice. But if you prefer a neutral sound, the WS Onion switch would provide a satisfying experience as well. Keep in mind though, that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors like your keyboard board and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the RedBlue linear switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that the switch provides a more gentle and approachable feel when typing compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and allows for smooth key travel.
In contrast, the WS Onion linear switch is described as having a buttery smooth keystroke feel. This implies that using these switches provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the RedBlue switch, the WS Onion switch is also described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the RedBlue and WS Onion linear switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch has a higher-pitched sound profile and provides a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switch has a neutral sound profile and offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel, also accompanied by a polished typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide their own unique qualities, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and a mild typing experience, the RedBlue switch is a great option. However, if you prefer a neutral sound and a buttery smooth keystroke feel, the WS Onion switch would be an excellent choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a thocky sound when pressed. Additionally, they provide a more gentle typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a deeply satisfying, buttery smooth keystroke feel and a neutral sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly heavier bottom out force, these switches offer a crisp and responsive feel. Moreover, they also feature a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities to cater to different preferences, so choose based on your desired typing experience and sound profile.
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